50-metre active optical HDMI link
UGREEN 45509 HDMI 2.0 Fibre Optic Cable, 50m
A directional Active Optical Cable for carrying an HDMI 2.0-class video and audio signal across a fixed 50-metre route, with support for up to 4K at 60Hz, 18Gbps and HDR when the complete signal chain supports them.
Product introduction
Overview
UGREEN model 45509 is a 50-metre HDMI male-to-male Active Optical Cable, often shortened to AOC. It combines optical transmission with active electronics inside the connector housings so an HDMI source can be linked to a distant television, monitor, projector, receiver or signage display without adding a separate HDMI extender box.
The exact model is specified for HDMI 2.0, link bandwidth up to 18Gbps, video up to 3840 × 2160 at 60Hz and HDR. Those are maximum supported link capabilities, not a promise that every source, input, application or content item will produce that mode. The lowest-capability device or setting in the chain determines the result.
This cable is directional. The plug marked Source belongs at the HDMI output; the plug marked Display belongs at the receiving HDMI input. A reversed installation normally produces no picture, so direction, route length and access for testing should be planned before the cable is concealed.
Quick reference
Key features
Connections and roles
The critical facts for a long HDMI run
Source end
Connect only to an HDMI output on a computer, console, player, set-top box, matrix, receiver or other AV source.
Display end
Connect only to an HDMI input on a television, monitor, projector, receiver or digital-signage display.
Full-size HDMI
Both ends are standard full-size HDMI male plugs. This is not Mini HDMI, Micro HDMI, USB-C or DisplayPort.
Installation role
Best suited to long fixed routes in rooms, halls and AV installations where the endpoints are approximately 50m apart.
Designed for distance
Optical transmission with active direction control
The AOC architecture is intended for long HDMI routes and is less susceptible to electromagnetic and radio-frequency interference than a conventional all-copper run. UGREEN specifies EMI/RFI resistance and aluminium connector shells for this exact model.
Because conversion electronics are located at the ends, the cable cannot be treated like a reversible passive lead. Read the Source and Display markings before routing it through a wall, ceiling tray or conduit.
- Carry the cable by its body, not by pulling the HDMI plug or connector housing.
- Test the selected resolution, refresh rate, HDR and audio before closing a ceiling or wall route.
- Allow service slack at both ends so the 50m cable is not placed under connector tension.
Signal-chain planning
4K60 depends on every device and setting in the path
A 4K60 source, an HDMI input rated for 4K60, compatible content and any receiver, switch, wall plate or coupler in between must all support the chosen mode. Some displays require an “enhanced HDMI” or similar input setting before 4K60 or HDR is accepted.
If the screen remains blank, first verify direction and input selection. Then connect the source directly to the display, choose a lower video mode, power-cycle the endpoints and re-enable the desired setting one step at a time.
- The cable transports the negotiated HDMI signal; it does not increase source resolution.
- HDR is available only when source, content and display all support a compatible HDR format.
- The model is not specified for HDMI 2.1 modes such as 4K120 or 8K.
Real-world applications
Use scenarios
Where a fixed 50m AOC is a sensible fit
Conference and training rooms
Link an AV rack or presenter computer to a projector or large display positioned across the room.
Home theatre projection
Route HDMI from an equipment cabinet to a distant projector after confirming the complete 4K60/HDR chain.
Lecture halls and houses of worship
Carry a presentation feed between a control position and an HDMI display over one pre-measured 50m path.
Digital signage and showrooms
Connect a signage player or distribution output to an HDMI screen when a long, directional point-to-point cable is appropriate.
Device and system fit
Compatible devices and systems
Use only between an HDMI output and HDMI input
Typical source devices
Desktop and laptop HDMI outputs, game consoles, media players, set-top boxes and AV equipment with a full-size HDMI output.
Typical receiving devices
Televisions, monitors, projectors, AV receivers and signage displays with a full-size HDMI input.
Video compatibility
Up to 3840 × 2160 at 60Hz and lower mutually supported modes, subject to the complete chain.
No operating-system driver
HDMI negotiation is handled by the connected AV devices; graphics, display or firmware settings may still require attention.
Important limitations
Check before buying
Check these points before ordering or connecting:
- Confirm that the route needs the listed 50m length; this cable cannot be shortened, re-terminated or extended like bulk installation cable.
- Identify the source HDMI output and receiving HDMI input before pulling the cable. The ends are not interchangeable.
- Confirm that conduit openings, wall plates and bend radii can accept the full moulded connector without force.
- Verify that every intermediate receiver, switch, coupler or wall plate supports the resolution, refresh rate, HDR and HDCP requirement of your content.
- For 4K60, check that the chosen display input is rated and configured for the required high-bandwidth mode.
- Plan a test while both ends remain accessible; an installed cable should be validated before ceilings or walls are closed.
- If you require HDMI 2.1 features such as 4K120, 8K or eARC-specific performance, select a model explicitly specified for them.
Function scope
What this product does
Use this model for the functions listed below.
- Carries a digital HDMI picture and audio signal from one HDMI output to one HDMI input.
- Supports HDMI 2.0-class bandwidth up to 18Gbps and video up to 4K60 on a compatible chain.
- Provides a single 50m point-to-point route using active optical construction.
- Supports HDR signalling where the source, content and display support compatible HDR.
Function boundaries
What this product does not do
These boundaries prevent a connector or headline specification from being mistaken for a different function.
- It does not work backwards from Display to Source.
- It does not convert HDMI to USB-C, DisplayPort, VGA, DVI or another connector.
- It does not split one source across multiple displays or switch between sources.
- It does not create 4K, HDR or surround sound when the connected equipment lacks those capabilities.
- It is not specified for 4K120, 8K or other HDMI 2.1 maximum modes.
Setup guidance
Setup and usability guidance
- Inspect both plugs and identify the labels or arrows for Source and Display.
- Connect Source to the HDMI output and Display to the receiving HDMI input; do not reverse them.
- Lay out the full route with broad bends, protection from sharp edges and sufficient slack at both ends.
- Before concealing the cable, power the source and display and select the correct HDMI input.
- Start with a widely supported resolution, then enable 4K60, HDR and the required audio mode after a stable picture appears.
- If a receiver, switch or wall plate is part of the route, validate each stage and bypass it during troubleshooting.
- Support the cable near the connectors so its weight does not pull sideways on the HDMI sockets.
Good practice
Do and avoid
What to do
- Measure the route including vertical drops, bends and service loops.
- Keep Source and Display labels visible until the installation test is complete.
- Use broad bends and a pull method that protects the moulded HDMI heads.
- Document the tested source mode and display input for future maintenance.
- Disconnect power before cleaning and use a dry, soft cloth on the connector exterior.
What not to do
- Do not reverse the cable or assume both ends are equivalent.
- Do not pull by the plug, crush the jacket, kink the fibre path or force it around a tight corner.
- Do not cut, splice or attempt field termination.
- Do not bury the cable before a complete end-to-end signal test.
- Do not interpret “18Gbps” as a guaranteed application throughput or as support for every newer HDMI feature.
Safe operation and troubleshooting
Warnings and limitations
Use it safely and troubleshoot methodically
Safety / limitation 1
Optical fibres and internal conductors can be damaged by crushing, sharp folds or excessive pulling force even when the outer jacket still looks intact.
Safety / limitation 2
Maximum video and audio performance is conditional on the source, display, content, settings and every device in between.
Safety / limitation 3
The 50m length is fixed. Excess cable should be stored in a broad, relaxed loop rather than a tight coil or compressed bundle.
Safety / limitation 4
Keep connectors dry and clean. Stop using the cable if the housing, strain relief or jacket is visibly damaged.
Safety / limitation 5
For in-wall or permanent-building installation, confirm the local fire, conduit and cable-rating requirements with the installer; this listing does not state an in-wall certification.
Verified specifications
Technical specifications
| Brand / SKU | UGREEN 45509 |
|---|---|
| Product type | HDMI 2.0 Active Optical Cable (AOC) |
| Cable length | 50 metres, fixed |
| Connectors | Full-size HDMI male to full-size HDMI male |
| Direction | Source output to Display input; not reversible |
| Maximum stated video | 3840 × 2160 at 60Hz |
| Maximum stated bandwidth | Up to 18Gbps |
| HDR | Supported with compatible source, content and display |
| Connector housing | Aluminium shell |
| Interference design | Specified as EMI/RFI resistant |
| Colour | Black cable with grey connector housings |
| Driver requirement | No cable driver; endpoint settings and drivers still apply |
In the box
Package contents
- 1 × UGREEN 45509 HDMI 2.0 Active Optical Cable, 50m.
No separate power supply, adapter or installation accessory is identified in the exact-SKU package information. Treat any unlisted item shown in a usage scene as illustrative, not included.
Helpful answers
Product-specific FAQ
Is UGREEN 45509 bidirectional?
No. Connect the end marked Source to the HDMI output and the end marked Display to the receiving HDMI input. A reversed connection normally produces no image.
Does it support 4K at 60Hz?
Yes, up to 3840 × 2160 at 60Hz is specified. The source, display input, settings, content and every intermediate device must support the same mode.
Can it carry HDR?
Yes, HDR signalling is supported when the source, content and display use a compatible HDR format. The cable cannot add HDR to non-HDR equipment.
Will it support 4K at 120Hz or 8K?
Those HDMI 2.1 modes are not specified for this HDMI 2.0, 18Gbps model. Choose a cable explicitly rated for the required HDMI 2.1 mode.
Does the cable need a separate power adapter?
The exact-SKU package information does not list a separate power adapter. Connect it directly between the correctly oriented HDMI ports.
Can I use an HDMI coupler or wall plate?
Only if the added component supports the complete signal requirement. Every extra connection can affect a long-run installation, so test direct first.
Can the 50m cable be shortened or spliced?
No. It is a factory-terminated active optical cable. Do not cut, splice or re-terminate it.
What should I test before concealing it?
Confirm direction, a stable picture, the selected resolution and refresh rate, HDR if required, audio and operation through any receiver or wall plate.
Why is there no picture after installation?
Check Source/Display direction, selected input, fully seated plugs and endpoint power. Then test a lower mode and bypass switches, receivers and couplers.
Does it convert HDMI to another connection?
No. It is HDMI male to HDMI male and does not convert to USB-C, DisplayPort, VGA, DVI or another interface.
Is it suitable for permanent in-wall installation?
The length and AOC design suit fixed routes, but this listing does not publish an in-wall fire rating. Confirm local building and cable requirements before installation.
